Unilever-Suchel SA, the consumer goods company’s joint venture with Cuban state-owned company Intersuchel S.A, began construction of the $35-million soap and toothpaste factory in the country’s Mariel special development zone. Highlighting Cuba’s growing ability to attract foreign investments following President Raul Castro’s efforts to reform the economy, the factory will manufacture personal care products, such as Sedal shampoo and Rexona deodorant. Unilever was one of the first companies to establish a venture in the country after Cuba allowed some Western investment in the 1990s. In 2012, the company left following a dispute over controlling interest in a joint venture.